Favorite Kansas parks and trails

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OTTAWA: Prairie Spirit Trail Recently designated as a Kansas State Park, this 51-mile north-south trail extends from Ottawa south through Princeton, Richmond, Garnett, Welda, Colony and Carlyle to Iola. Composed of finely crushed and compacted limestone and virtually flat, the 12-foot-wide trail is suitable for most bikes. One-day permits ($3.50 for riders age 16 and older) can be purchased at kiosks at trailheads in each city. Keep in mind that most of the trail is rural and often lightly traveled except on weekends. Always be prepared with spare tires, a pump, rain jacket, cell phone, water and snacks. (785) 448-6767

LAWRENCE: Clinton Lake It’s easy to see why summer crowds pack Clinton Lake and surrounding park areas. Noted as one of the country’s top 50 boating lakes, its steady winds and large stretches of glistening water attract motorboats, water-skiers, sailboats and windsurfers. Sandy beaches and four playgrounds entertain kids. Hiking and mountain biking trails wind through wooded ravines along the lake’s north shore, and a skills loop challenges experienced mountain bikers. For runners and bikers, a network of paved trails affords easy access to shops and restaurants in nearby Lawrence. A full-service marina offers boat slips, supplies and equipment rentals. (785) 842-8562

CHERRYVALE: Big Hill Lake The bass and catfish always take the bait at Big Hill Lake. After catching your fill, stroll through oak woodlands and bluestem prairies on the mile-long Ruth Nixon Trail or saddle up on the 17-mile-long bridle trail. For more great fishing, dip a line into one of the ponds neighboring the lake in Big Hill Wildlife Area. (620) 336-2741